How Stickers on a Sticker Chart Reinforce Behavior

What are stickers on a sticker chart an example of?

Stickers on a sticker chart are an example of which type of reinforcer?

Answer:

Stickers on a sticker chart are an example of a secondary type of reinforcer.

Stickers on a sticker chart serve as a secondary or conditioned reinforcer in reinforcing behavior. Secondary reinforcers are stimuli, objects, or events that become reinforcing based on their association with a primary reinforcer. In the context of operant conditioning, which is the basic principle of positive reinforcement described by Skinner, secondary reinforcers are used to encourage and strengthen desired behaviors.

When a behavior, such as a child completing a task or following instructions, is rewarded with a sticker on a sticker chart, the child associates the sticker with a positive outcome. Over time, the sticker becomes a secondary reinforcer because it is linked to the primary reinforcer, which could be praise, a tangible reward, or another form of positive reinforcement. The sticker itself gains value and motivates the child to repeat the desired behavior to earn more stickers.

For example, a dog may not naturally want to sit on command. However, when sitting is paired with primary reinforcers like treats or praise, and each successful sit earns a sticker on a chart, the sticker becomes a secondary reinforcer. The dog learns that sitting leads to a positive outcome, making it more likely to sit on command in the future to receive the secondary reinforcer.

In conclusion, stickers on a sticker chart play a crucial role in reinforcing behavior by acting as secondary reinforcers that motivate individuals to engage in desired behaviors. They help create a positive association with tasks or actions, ultimately shaping behavior in a positive direction.